Twenty-three years ago on September 11, 2001, the world witnessed the deadliest terrorist attack against the United States in our nation’s history that cut short thousands of precious lives. We are eternally grateful for the courageous first responders, service members, and citizens that came together in support of one another as the towers fell. There were no strangers on Ground Zero, only patriots helping their fellow countrymen and women. Through the rubble and amidst the dust and destruction of that day, our nation vowed to not allow it to fade from our memories. As we solemnly mark the 23rd anniversary of September 11th and honor the lives lost on that horrific day, we carry out our promise to never forget.

The four hijacked planes that flew into the World Trade Center in New York City, the Pentagon in Washington D.C., and a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, took the lives of nearly 3000 innocent people. An immense sense of loss still permeates throughout our country, especially in my home state of New York. After the initial impact on the World Trade Center's North Tower, heroic New York City first responders and heroic citizens rushed towards the crumbling skyscraper resulting in hundreds selflessly losing their lives trying to save their fellow Americans.

In order to preserve their memory, I have worked tirelessly with my colleagues to guarantee that the 9/11 World Trade Center Health Program receives sufficient funding to ensure comprehensive care for every first responder and survivor of that fateful day. I’ve also made it a priority to make sure the terrorists responsible for these horrid attacks are held responsible by cosponsoring the Justice for 9/11 Act to prevent the Biden-Harris Administration from offering plea deals to the September 11th terrorists Khalid Shaikh Mohammad, Walid Muhammad Salih Mubarak Bin ‘Attash, and Mustafa Ahmed Adam al Hawsawi.

Many brave Americans accepted the call for duty in the aftermath of September 11th and enlisted in our military to ensure such evil never reaches American soil again. As the Representative of New York’s 21st Congressional District, I am honored to represent Fort Drum, home of the 10th Mountain Division, the most deployed division in the United States Army since the September 11th attacks. Over the past 20 years, these courageous soldiers have continuously deployed to the Middle East to defend our national security and safeguard the cherished values that those terrorists sought to destroy.

New York’s 21st District also embraces a substantial number of law enforcement officers and first responders who have chosen to make Upstate New York and the North Country their home. Given the valiant service of our military personnel and first responders, spanning over two decades since the September 11th attacks, we must remain committed to serving them and honoring their sacrifices within our community.

The events of September 11th fortified the American spirit of New Yorkers and Americans across our country as we watched our freedom and values threatened. Together, we will always fight to ensure justice for the victims of September 11th and honor their memories. As we reflect on their legacy, let us honor the fallen by continuing to stand firm in our principles and support those who defend them. May we never forget the lessons learned from that day and may we always cherish the enduring spirit of resilience that defines us as a nation.

Elise Stefanik
House GOP Chairwoman